The Canadian Bankers Association yesterday announced the appointment of Nancy Hughes Anthony as president and CEO of the CBA, effective May 28. Hughes Anthony succeeds Raymond Protti, who announced his retirement in September 2006 after serving over 10 years in the role.

“We are extremely pleased that Nancy Hughes Anthony has accepted our offer to lead the Canadian Bankers Association,” stated Fred Tomczyk, vice chairman, corporate operations, TD Bank Financial Group and chairman of the CBA’s executive council.

“We conducted an extensive search and talked to a number of outstanding candidates. With Nancy, we are continuing a tradition of excellence in this position. She brings a wealth of experience and an impressive array of dynamic skills and strategic insight. Nancy has exceptional leadership qualities, is familiar with our issues and will be a strong voice for the industry.”

Hughes Anthony is currently the president and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Prior to her arrival at the Canadian Chamber in 1998, she gained senior experience in the federal and provincial governments as well as the private sector, having served as a federal deputy minister, a senior advisor to the government of Prince Edward Island and as a corporate vice-president.

“Canada has a highly competitive and vibrant banking sector,” said Hughes Anthony. “Without question, its strength and health is critical to the success of our economy and to the financial goals of Canadians. I am honoured to be taking on this role representing an industry of such national importance.”

Hughes Anthony is one of the first graduates of the Directors Education Program from the Corporate Governance College. She has received the Women’s Executive Network Top 100 Most Powerful Women Award.

The Montreal-born Hughes Anthony graduated from McGill University with a general arts degree. She has lived and worked in Germany and in Mexico, and is fluent in English, French and Spanish.

Tomczyk also acknowledged the contributions of retiring president and CEO, Raymond Protti. “Ray can be proud of the work the CBA has done through his tenure and the professionalism and excellence that define it. I want to thank him for over 10 years of dedication and service to the CBA and the banking industry.”